Guard your Heart

Life continues to be a mystery as we look ahead. Aren’t you glad we serve a God who has the whole world in his hands? He knows what the future holds, and we know He holds the future!

This morning I was sitting with friends doing a devotional, and we read Proverbs 4:23. After our time of reflection and prayer, I read it again and let it soak in. These are such great words to refocus our minds today.

Guard your heart. “Above all else, guard your heart…” What a great reminder during these days of trouble. We are challenged every day with the ongoing negativity in the news, and the uncertainty and fear of COVID-19. Unsettledness can overwhelm and surround us. These things constantly battle for our attention. We can easily fixate on the cares and concerns of this world and end up paralyzed or bogged down with these burdens.

This passage says to guard your heart. This is not merely a suggestion it is a command. God is saying protect the very core of your being. It is where all your dreams, your desires, and your passions live. It is that deep part of you that connects with God and other people.

This encouragement from Proverbs 4 is just what we need to hear today. We make the choice to watch what we are dwelling on. When I think of guardrails or guarding our hearts, I realize we have to be proactive. We have to put guardrails in place. Philippians 4:8 reminds us how to guard our heart. Instead think about, and even more, dwell on the things that are excellent and praiseworthy. The things that are true and honorable. Things that are both right and lovely.

Ladies, our hearts guide and direct all that we do. Every word that comes out of our mouth starts in the heart. All of our actions and choices are driven by the desires of the heart. Above all else, guard your heart.

During these days when there’s so many voices, make sure you are listening to the right voice – Jesus – and you are reading the right book – the Word of God.

Remember, your heart overflows into thoughts, words, and actions. Let them flow from a heart that is trusting the Lord. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.

As a reminder, we have a Women in Ministry project this year to help support the Eurasia Ladies Conference. Please let me know by August 15th if you can help with this project.